The Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business at the University of Waterloo recently hosted its semi-annual Pitch Day, providing students in the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) program with a unique opportunity to present their startup ideas to a panel of esteemed mentors.
The event, which took place on November 28, showcased the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation of both full-time and part-time Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology (MBET) students, who were eager to share their ventures with the community.
Over 15 student teams participated in this high-energy event, pitching a wide range of innovative business ideas to a distinguished group of mentors. These mentors represented a diverse cross-section of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including legal experts from Gowling WLG, investors from the Golden Triangle Angel Network (GTAN), leaders from local innovation hubs as well as government program representatives and angel investors.
Throughout the day, students were given the chance to present their ideas, receive valuable feedback, and engage in discussions that offered constructive insights into everything from business strategy to product development. The event is a cornerstone of the MBET program, emphasizing the importance of real-world mentorship and networking as students develop their ventures and refine their pitching skills.
Mentors provided tailored advice on a variety of topics, encouraging students to think critically about the challenges they may face as they scale their businesses and bringing attention to key areas for improvement. In turn, students walked away with new perspectives, actionable suggestions, and increased confidence in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
“We are extremely proud of how far our students have come in just a short time,” said David Rose, Associate Director of the MBET program. “Pitch Day is a fantastic opportunity for students to demonstrate their growth, both in terms of their ventures and their ability to communicate their ideas effectively. The feedback they receive today will help them continue to refine their business models and strengthen their entrepreneurial toolkit.”
One of the highlights of the event came from Tom Hunter, Partner at Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP, a long-standing community partner and mentor, who took a moment to reflect on the success of the MBET program. “The MBET program continues to be an incredible catalyst for innovation in the Kitchener-Waterloo region and beyond,” said Hunter. “It’s inspiring to see how these students are tackling complex challenges with creativity and determination. I’m proud to be a part of their journey.”
As the day concluded, students and mentors alike looked ahead to the next Pitch Day in Spring 2025, where many of the same faces will return to see firsthand the progress students have made—both in their ventures and their ability to pitch. It’s expected to be a pivotal moment in the students’ entrepreneurial journeys, as they take the insights gained from today’s event and apply them to the growth and development of their businesses.